Near Newcastle Upon Tyne Is A Small Market Town With Riverside Walks, Stylish Shops, And Vibrant Bars

In the northeastern corner of England, the county of Northumberland encompasses about 2,000 square miles, from the sweeping heather moorland inland to the wide sandy beaches lapped by the North Sea. Amidst this scenic landscape are a number of charming towns, but Northumberland's main county town today is Morpeth. Located about 15 miles north of Newcastle upon Tyne, the seventh largest city in the UK, Morpeth is a centuries-old hub snugly wedged along the banks of the River Wansbeck. Measuring just about 2 square miles, this small market town brims with historic architecture, plenty of shopping and dining, and riverside parks.

Morpeth was first established in the 11th century by William de Merlay, who was the first Baron of Morpeth. After receiving its market charter in the early 13th century,Morpeth later became a leading market town with markets held in the town's central square, presided over by the 60-foot-tall Morpeth Clock Tower and Baroque-style Town Hall. Today, Morpeth still maintains its market traditions with weekly and monthly markets, as well as charming shops and lively pubs lining its streets. While Morpeth has a petite yet bustling center, visitors can also enjoy its serene riverside setting at spacious Carlisle Park or embark on idyllic walking trails that run along the River Wansbeck.

Morpeth is easily accessible, lying about a 30-minute drive or 15-minute train ride from the under-the-radar city of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. If you're flying in, Newcastle's international airport (NCL) receives nonstop flights from many major European cities. The best time to plan a trip to Morpeth is between June and September when daytime temperatures range from the low to mid 60s degree Fahrenheit which is ideal for outdoor walks and activities.

Shoppers will want to make a beeline to Morpeth's central thoroughfares of Bridge Street and Newgate Street, whose brick and half-timbered facades are dotted with a wide range of shops. A Morpeth institution on Bridge Street is Rutherford & Co., a beloved department store that was first established here in 1846. In its prominent building, Rutherford stocks stylish women's fashions, beauty and skincare products, children's toys and books, home and kitchenware, and more. Across the street from Rutherford & Co. is Sanderson Arcade, an elegant shopping mall lined with British boutiques. Here you can check out chic women's clothing at Mint Velvet, a whimsical array of homewares and gifts at Oliver Bonas, and fine jewelry and designer watches at Market Cross Jewellers. For more eclectic finds and fresh provisions, head to Morpeth's historic Market Place for the weekly Wednesday market or the farmers market held on the first Saturday of each month.

If you need a break from all the browsing, Morpeth has plenty of vibrant bars for a draught beer or hearty meal. Tripadvisor's top-rated pub in Morpeth is the Black Bull, which has a long history in the town dating to the 18th century. However, its interiors have been upgraded in contemporary style with an illuminated bar, whimsical wallpaper, plush sofas, and flat-screen TVs for game days. Here you can feast on pub classics, such as beer-battered fish and chips, sausage and mash, and burgers, along with beers, ciders, and cocktails. For a classic local vibe, head over to the White Swan, which serves an array of draft beers and cocktails in a no-frills tavern space. Its friendly atmosphere is fostered by live music and quiz nights. Another lively option is Pleased to Meet You, housed in a renovated 17th-century building, which boasts a chic cocktail bar, British brasserie, and tearoom.

Northumberland is famed for its scenic landscapes and castles, and easy walks from Morpeth will showcase both. After you've explored the town, cross the River Wansbeck at the Chantry Footbridge, and head down Castle Square until you see the Gothic Revival-style Morpeth Court. Directly across from Morpeth Court is the entrance to Carlisle Park, the 40-acre public park that sprawls along the southern bank of the river. The eastern end of the park is marked by Ha' Hill, an ancient motte and bailey that is grazed by resident sheep. The park is filled with outdoor fun, from blooming formal gardens to a child-friendly paddling pool, and also houses the remaining gatehouse of the 14th-century Morpeth Castle, which can now be rented as a four-bedroom accommodation.

Along Carlisle Park's riverfront is a stone-lined walking path, which skirts the curving river and is flanked by trees. Stroll down the peaceful riverside walk to reach the Morpeth Stepping Stones, a neat row of rocks spanning the river that are fun to hop across. From the other side of the river, you can head back to central Newgate Street. If you want a longer walk, embark on the River Wansbeck trail from Morpeth, which is an over 5-mile walk that heads east from Morpeth and traces the path of the River Wansbeck. This mostly unpaved trail passes through unspoiled woodlands and beneath a railway viaduct before turning back around at the Bothal Mill Bridge. "The trail begins narrow with some steep banks, then expands into a wider path that follows the river, offering great views of the Bothal Viaduct," reported an AllTrails reviewer. For more outdoor adventures and walks nearby, you can head about 50 miles west of Morpeth to the Kielder Forest, an idyllic nature escape with trails, lake views, and starry skies.